Falling for Phals

Phal. equestris, from the Ron Daley collection

Phal. equestris var. alba

Phal. mannii var. aureum

  The Phalaenopsis is a gateway orchid for so many people, but not for me. I quickly killed the first couple of Phals I owned, and I associated Phals with sphagnum moss problems, grocery stores, and commonness. But I'm a reformed man. I finally see why people love these plants.

I have three hybrids I adore. They have performed well for me and I have positive memories associated with them: Fred's Redlip, Fred’s Pimento, and Nobby’s Amy. The Phal species, however, are really catching my fancy lately. My favorite is an alba form equestris I bought from Hilltop Orchids. I have a mannii var. aureum (from Oak Hills Gardens) that bloomed for me recently. It’s phenomenal. It has only five flowers, but so much potential. 

 Don't be surprised if a few more small-growing Phal. species end up in my collection.